54 Songs About Heroes and Superheroes
FlourishAnyway believes there is a playlist for just about any situation and is on a mission to unite and entertain the world through song.
Celebrate the heroes in your life with a customized playlist of pop, rock, and country tunes.
Not Every Hero Wears a Cape
The heroes in my life have never worn a cape. They don't have x-ray vision, fly invisible planes, or leap tall buildings in a single bound. They are ordinary people whose commitment, compassion, and service to others serve as an exemplar of humanity at its finest.
My heroes have been
- the teachers who challenged and inspired me,
- my parents who nurtured and sacrificed for me, and
- strangers who offered a much-needed helping hand in times of crisis.
Never underestimate the impact that your kindness has on another human being, even if they don't have the presence of mind at the time to thank you.
If you have heroes in your life, then why not take the time to thank them? And while you're at it, celebrate them with a custom playlist. We've got a long list of pop, rock, and country hits to get you started.
1. "One Call Away" by Charlie Puth
The narrator in this 2015 hit reminds the woman he cares about that when she's feeling like a damsel in distress, all she needs to do is summon him for help. He wants to lift her spirits and set her free:
I'm only one call away
I'll be there to save the day
Superman got nothing on me
I'm only one call away.
2. "Hero" by Enrique Iglesias
This is a romantic, soul-wrenching 2001 song that asks just how far you would go for your beloved. The protagonist then promises
I can be your hero baby
I can kiss away the pain
I will stand by you forever
You can take my breath away.
The song was released just eight days before the 9/11 attacks and became one of the few songs chosen to be remixed with commentary from politicians as well as audio from firefighters, police, and civilians at Ground Zero.
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3. "Holding Out for a Hero" by Bonnie Tyler
In this supercharged, uptempo hit from 1984, the narrator fantasizes that a superhero will come along instead of the regular men she meets. However, she has a number of requirements: "He's gotta be strong, he's gotta be fast, and he's gotta be fresh from the fight." Wanting someone larger than life to sweep her off her feet, she refuses to settle for just any man.
4. "Hero" by Mariah Carey
You may feel broken and tentative. You may have lost hope. But if you dig deep, you will discover that a hero lies deep within.
So says this encouraging 1993 hit, beautifully sung by diva Mariah Carey. Even if no one else reaches out to lift you up, you have the strength within to fly solo. So step up to your challenges and realize what you're worth!
I am not saying I am Wonder Woman. I am just saying no one has ever seen me and Wonder Woman in the same room.
DuckPuppy via Flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0
5. "Heroes" by David Bowie
This 1977 song became a signature song for David Bowie, and it alludes to two lovers embracing by the Berlin Wall, one from East Berlin and one from West Berlin. Although the couple is being separated by a force they cannot control, they yearn to be free, together.
6. "Heroes and Friends" by Randy Travis
According to this 1990 country hit, there are only two things that last a lifetime: heroes and friends. Heroes teach us to find the good in ourselves while friends stay loyal and offer us support.
7. "Superman (It's Not Easy)" by Five For Fighting
The message behind this 2001 song is that heroes are not indestructible. Superman is this song's narrator, and he describes a dislike of flying and the desire to dream. He also refers to his cape as "silly." Sounds like a superhero identity complex to me.
"We can't all be heroes, because somebody has to sit on the curb and applaud when they go by." - Will Rogers, American cowboy
Eric Ward via Flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0
8. "Heroes" by Paul Overstreet
Mothers who rock their crying babies and fathers who work hard for their families are just two examples of ordinary heroes. According to this 1991 song, heroes don't always wear uniforms or make the news headlines:
'Cause you know heroes come in every shape and size
Making special sacrifices for others in her lives
No one gives them medals, the world don't know their names
But in someone's eyes, they're heroes just the same.
9. "(We Could Be) Heroes" by Alesso, featuring Tove Lo
This is an inspiring 2014 song that motivates us to consider the heroic potential that exists within each of us "with love and a little light." Anyone has the power if they understand the greatness that is possible.
10. "Waiting for Superman" by Daughtry
The woman in this 2013 song is waiting for her hero to come rescue her. However, she's been locked in her apartment for 100 days and so far he hasn't shown up. She keeps making excuses for him. While she waits, she must find her own source of strength.
Heroes don't always wear capes.
xmascarol via Flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0
11. "I Would Die 4U" by Prince and the Revolution
This 1984 hit is about someone who promises that they would make the ultimate sacrifice for someone they love. Many people claim that the song is about Jesus, as there is a lyric that references "I'm your messiah, and you're the reason why." Despite being known for racy songs throughout his career, the singer was a conservative Christian.
12. "Superheroes" by The Script
According to this stirring 2014 song, superheroes are born of strife and struggle. They turn their pain into power:
'Cause he's stronger than you know
A heart of steel starts to grow.
13. "She's Somebody's Hero" by Jamie O'Neal
This sentimental 2005 country song reminds us that heroes come in all kinds of packages. Mothers are often overlooked for their heroic commitment to their children.
They bandage skinned knees, read bedtime stories, and shuttle kids from one activity to the next. They encourage and uplift, giving us the strength to fly on our own. And then, hopefully, we return their care and commitment when they need it.
"The ordinary hero hiding in each of us is often the most powerful catalyst for change." - Tate Taylor, American actor
Eric Ward via Flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0, modified by FlourishAnyway
14. "We Don't Need Another Hero" by Tina Turner
The powerful vocals in this 1985 song advocate love, compassion and making a united contribution for a better world tomorrow. The Grammy-nominated song was featured in the movie, "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome."
"A hero is somebody who voluntarily walks into the unknown." - Tom Hanks, American actor
Thomas Hawk via Flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0, modified by FlourishAnyway
15. "I'll Be There" by Mariah Carey
This 1990 hit was originally recorded by the Jackson 5, but Mariah Carey soars in her performance of it. The song refers to a pact to be mutually accountable to one another, with the narrator promising that all her friend has to do is call and she'll be there. She will protect, comfort and build up her friend in a blanket of love. If that's not a hero, then what is?
16. "Everyday Superhero" by Smash Mouth
According to this 2006 song, even heroes can feel self-doubt. Sung from the perspective of an ordinary superhero just trying to save the world, he's feeling the pressure of his role. He explains that it's difficult when everyone looks up to you. This superhero is just trying to save the world, so just leave him alone and let him just do his thing. No pressure, right?
17. "My Hero" by The Foo Fighters
The media often highlights athletes, business tycoons, and Hollywood creatives as heroes, but this 1998 alternative rock song pays homage to the heroes among us. They're the nurses, EMTs, firefighters, teachers, parents, and community volunteers. It's a thoughtful tribute to all of the heroes in our lives who don't make headlines but make our lives better.
18. "Kryptonite" by 3 Doors Down
The superhero in this 1999 song sees himself as "just your average ordinary everyday superhero trying to save the world ... nothing more than that, that's all I really am." Even though he has superpowers and wears spandex, he's just like everyone else in that he just wants to be accepted.
"A hero is someone we can admire without apology." Kitty Kelley, American author
clarkmaxwell via Flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0
19. "Wind Beneath My Wings" by Bette Midler
For everyone who enjoys the limelight, there are the unsung heroes who supported their path to fame and fortune. This1988 song pays homage to the heroes in our lives who stay in the shadows, content to allow us to bask in the glory and let us shine. Consider this song the ultimate "thank you" to the unsung heroes who fueled your dreams — teachers, parents, mentors, spouses, and dear friends.
20. "Immortals" by Fallout Boy
In this 2015 song, the narrator invites his partner to spend an eternity with him; the time that they share is their eternity.
He tells her that he'll always look out for her and will pull her back onto the right path if he sees her drifting. Everyone seeks immortality, and even if you don't achieve it, it's a laudable goal worth fighting for.
"We are the hero of our own story." - Mary McCarthy, American novelist
Even More Songs About Heroes and Superheroes
| Song | Artist | Year Released |
|---|---|---|
21. Superman Tonight | Bon Jovi | 2009 |
22. Every Day | Rascal Flatts | 2007 |
23. Jukebox Hero | Foreigner | 1981 |
24. My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys | Willie Nelson | 1979 |
25. Kill Your Heroes | AWOLNATION | 2011 |
26. Superhero | Simon Curtis | 2011 |
27. Waitin' for a Superman | The Flaming Lips` | 1999 |
28. Hero | Chad Kroeger featuring Josie Scott | 2002 |
29. Hero | Jessie J | 2013 |
30. Working Class Hero | Green Day | 2007 |
31. Hero in Your Own Hometown | Mary Chapin Carpenter | 1996 |
32. Flash | Queen | 1980 |
33. Superman's Song | Crash Test Dummies | 1991 |
34. (Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman | The Kinks | 1979 |
35. Ballad of the Green Berets | Sgt. Barry Sadler | 1966 |
36. Greatest American Hero | Joey Scarbury | 1981 |
37. Rock 'N' Roll Hero | Meatloaf | 1986 |
38. Batdance | Prince | 1989 |
39. Where Have All Our Heroes Gone | Bill Anderson | 1971 |
40. I Thought That He Walked On Water | Randy Travis | 1990 |
41. Warrior | Kid Rock | 2008 |
42. My Woman, My Woman, My Wife | Marty Robbins | 1970 |
43. Superwoman | Karyn White | 1988 |
44. Superman's Song | Crash Test Dummies | 1991 |
45. Wonder Woman | Larissa Lam | 2015 |
46. Hero | Skillet | 2009 |
47. Superhero | Jane's Addiction | 2003 |
48. Save Me | Remy Zero | 2001 |
49. Superman | Luna Halo | 2000 |
50. Something Just Like This | The Chainsmokers & Coldplay | 2017 |
51. Not All Heroes Wear Capes | Owl City | 2017 |
52. Wonder Woman | Lion Babe | 2016 |
53. My Own Hero | Andy Grammer | 2019 |
54. My Hero | Westlife | 2021 |
Are you a hero, wannabe, or sidekick?
Robin Slavin via Flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
© 2016 FlourishAnyway
Comments
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on May 21, 2020:
Bob - No problem. I do it too!
Robert Sacchi on May 20, 2020:
Another miss for me. My bad.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on May 19, 2020:
Bob - Thanks for the suggestion. It's on there already #32 ("Flash" by Queen). I appreciate you.
Robert Sacchi on May 18, 2020:
What about "Flash Gordon" by Queen.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on February 20, 2019:
Shane - Thank you for the song suggestion!
Shane on February 19, 2019:
Don’t know if this is still updated, but Pride and the Badge by Marty Robbins is an all time favorite of mine. (spoiler)
A ranger shows up to a town being sacked by three outlaws. The sheriff was shot dead, and the townspeople would rather the ranger let the outlaws do their thing and leave out of fear. (Major spoiler) His pride won’t let him leave and his Badge stops a bullet from killing him.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on November 14, 2018:
Inthesar - Fantastic recommendation! Thank you for drawing my attention to this song. I've added it to not only this playlist but also the playlist "Songs About Families." Have a great day! And hug your dad.
Inthesar on November 12, 2018:
Not all Heroes wear Capes - Owl City
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on March 24, 2018:
John - Thanks for stopping by. Hope you are well.
John Hansen from Gondwana Land on March 24, 2018:
Flourish, what a wonderful collection of songs about heroes you have compiled. Everyone inspirational in its own right. Great job.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on March 23, 2018:
Ben Truby - Many thanks for the song suggestions. I have added several of them. You're super!
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on March 23, 2018:
Ben Truby - Thanks for the song suggestion! I added it at #47. Have a great day.
Ben Truby on March 23, 2018:
I almost forgot this one, which was the song for the opening credits of Entourage:
Super Hero by Jane's Addiction
Ben Truby on March 23, 2018:
Just a few others that I have stumbled upon over the years and I think people would enjoy:
Save Me by Remy Zero
Superman by Luna Halo
Something Just LIke This by Coldplay & The Chainsmokers
Super Woman by Lil' Mo
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on February 14, 2018:
Sally - Thank you for your comment.
Sally Olsen on February 14, 2018:
A Hero to me is someone who thinks they have done little, but the little they have done, has gone a long way.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on August 26, 2017:
Grizz11 - Consider it added! Thanks for reading and taking the time to make a comment and suggestion.
Grizz11 on August 26, 2017:
I think skillet hero should be on the list
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 13, 2017:
Thank you, Ryan! I hope you have a hero in your life and are serving as a hero for others as well. We never know whose eyes are looking to you as a role model!
Fullerman5000 on July 13, 2017:
Great list of songs. I was definitely happy to see My Hero by the Foo Fighters and Kryptonite by 3 doors down. Did not realize how many more songs are out there about heroes. Fun article.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 12, 2017:
Cali C - I listened to it and love it! Adding it as #45. Thank you for the suggestion.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on June 26, 2017:
watermelon - You might want to get back to studying then, eh?
i like watermelooooon on June 25, 2017:
this was kind of helpful but then i realised im not even studying heros and im just sad because i dont have any chips left and i need to study but im sade because my pet grape died
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on September 16, 2016:
Sha - It's a lovely song. We are all important to someone, and I hope we treat one another more kindly with a broader understanding that each of us exists within a network of people who love and depend upon us, look up to us for inspiration and support.
Shauna L Bowling from Central Florida on September 15, 2016:
The song and video by Jamie O'Neal had me in tears. Beautiful song!
We don't realize what an impact we have on people's lives. I think there are more heroes on this earth than not.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on August 06, 2016:
norlawrence - I appreciate you stopping by!
norlawrence on August 05, 2016:
Very good. Thank you.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on August 02, 2016:
teaches12345 - Thank you for stopping by! A good teacher is priceless!
teaches12345 on August 01, 2016:
I enjoyed this look at super heroes. True, many do not wear capes but they are heroes still.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 25, 2016:
Dora - Thank you for taking the time to stop by. I totally agree with you. Yours is smiling down on you. You are a hero, too, for the kind and loving care that you took of her.
Dora Weithers from The Caribbean on July 25, 2016:
Mothers and grandmothers as heroes are the most appealing to me. They don't wear capes; they wear invisible crowns. Great song list as usual.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 25, 2016:
Patricia - I'm glad you enjoyed the playlist and that it was close to your heart, reminding you of your dear grandson. Blessings to you all.
Patricia Scott from North Central Florida on July 24, 2016:
flourish this is very close to my heart....with Heston Wayne being touched by superheroes we are all 'heroes' for him and to him right now And the really lovely thing is....HE is our hero.
Angels are once again on the way to you ps
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 22, 2016:
Linda - I'm glad I included one of your favorites! Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for stopping by!
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 22, 2016:
Thanks, Larry!
Linda Lum from Washington State, USA on July 22, 2016:
When I read the title of this hub, I wondered if you would include the Foo Fighters song. ...of course you did! You never disappoint. Another great, uplifting hub. As you said, true heroes don't announce themselves with capes and silver bracelets. They walk among us every day.
Larry Rankin from Oklahoma on July 22, 2016:
Another wonderful list.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 22, 2016:
Heidi - How awesome that you are a lucky concert goer able to see the real deal! Thanks for stopping by! Have a great weekend!
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 22, 2016:
Devika - What a wonderful comment. Glad you enjoyed it. Have a lovely weekend!
Heidi Thorne from Chicago Area on July 21, 2016:
Another great playlist... as usual. BTW, I just saw Three Doors Down live a few weeks ago and, of course, they did Kryptonite. Keep the hits going, girl!
Devika Primić from Dubrovnik, Croatia on July 21, 2016:
You surprised me with this hub! A lovely idea and HERO is my best by Enrique Iglesias.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 21, 2016:
Shyron - What a wonderful grandmother you had! Not everyone is so lucky. Thanks for the suggestion, too. I wil add it! Have a wonderful day!
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 21, 2016:
John - I'm so happy you enjoyed it this much! Some of my favorites are on here, too! Have a great day!
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 21, 2016:
Bill - Glad you enjoyed it! Have a super day, super writer.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 21, 2016:
Frank - A big thank you to you.
FlourishAnyway (author) from USA on July 21, 2016:
Peggy - Thank you for your kind kudos. I have a moderator (probably a newbie) who insists on snipping my listings on towns and cities as irrelevant, but I consider them fun and a little different. I'm glad you like that feature! Thanks for your support!
John Hansen from Gondwana Land on July 21, 2016:
What a super collection of songs here, Flourish. It is impossible to even pick my favourites, though "Hero" by Enrique Iglesias and the one by Mariah Carey would be up there, and "Superman by Five4Fighting, and well..so many more...love this hub.
Bill Holland from Olympia, WA on July 21, 2016:
#7 is one of my all-time favorites. I'm glad it's on the list.....another good one, my friend. Thanks for the playlist.
Frank Atanacio from Shelton on July 21, 2016:
Again I am so entertained by your music hubs.. bravo Flourish...:) Frank
Shyron E Shenko from Texas on July 21, 2016:
Flourish, this is another great musical tribute to the heroes of our world.
My grandmother was a hero to all her grandchildren, she raised 5 children, 6 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.
My grandfather lived the Marty Robbins song.
"My Woman, My Woman, My Wife"
Hands that are strong but wrinkled
Doing work that never gets done
Hair, that's lost some of the beauty
By too many hours in the sun
Eyes, that show some disappointment
And there's been quite a lot in her life
She's the foundation I lean on
My woman, my woman, my wife
Everyday has been uphill
Oh, we climb but we can't reach the top
I'm weak and I'm easily discouraged
She just smiles when I want to stop
Lips, that are weary but tender
With love, that strengthens my life
A saint, in a dress made of gingham
My woman, my woman, my wife
Two little babies were born in the spring
But died when the winter was new
I lost control of my mind and my soul
But my woman's faith carried us through
When she reaches that river
Lord, you know what she's worth
Give her that mansion up yonder
'Cause she's been through hell here on earth
Blessings and hugs Dear Friend
Lord, give her my share of Heaven
If I've earned any here in this life
'Cause God, I believe she deserves it
My woman, my woman, my wife
Peggy Woods from Houston, Texas on July 21, 2016:
I absolutely love your first paragraph! Most true heroes are ordinary people who go about their lives in a quiet but important way. That is quite the assortment of songs! Most enjoyable is your listing of towns and cities at the end of these posts with names appropriate to the content of your hubs. Nothing in Texas this time! Ha! Happy to share.
